Let Us Abstain from Murmuring in 2021 (1 Corinthians 10:1-13)
Introduction:
1. These verses contain some very important instructions that are based on God's dealings with the Israelites. 2. According to vs.1-4, God blessed the Israelites by delivering them from Egypt, by providing food and water for them, and by providing direction and protection for them. 3. We learn from vs.5 that God was not pleased with many of the Israelites, and He prevented them from entering the Promised Land. 4. In vs.6 we are admonished to avoid the mistakes of the Israelites. 5. More specifically, we are shown: a. in vs.7 that we must not be "idolaters" b. in vs.8 that we must not "commit fornication" c. in vs.9 that we must not "tempt Christ" d. in vs.10 that we must not "murmur" [to grumble, to complain because of discontentment]. 6. After going through 2020, "let us abstain from murmuring in 2021." 7. Since the instruction we are studying is based on events that involved the Israelites, let us first examine . . .
Discussion:
I. MURMURING IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
A. The Israelites murmured on many occasions as they traveled to the Promised Land. 1. They murmured because they had no fresh water (Exodus 15:22-24). 2. They murmured because they had no food (Exodus 16:1-3, 11-12). 3. They murmured because they needed water (Exodus 17:1-3). 4. They murmured after hearing the report of the spies (Numbers 14:1-4, 26-30). B. The occasion under consideration in 1 Corinthians 10:10 is when Korah led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron (Numbers 16:1-3, 31-33, 41, 49). C. On the basis of this information, let us turn our attention to . . .
II. MURMURING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
A. The Jews often murmured against Jesus and His disciples because He associated with sinners (Luke 5:30; 15:2; 19:7). B. The Jews murmured against Jesus because of His teaching (John 6:41). C. The Lord's followers murmured against Mary when she anointed Him with expensive ointment (Mark 14:3-5; John 12:3). D. In the Jerusalem congregation, the Grecians murmured against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected (Acts 6:1). E. To help us abstain from murmuring this year, let us: 1. understand that Jesus forbids His followers to murmur (John 6:43) 2. realize that Jesus knows when His followers murmur (John 6:61) 3. practice the admonition given in Philippians 2:14-15.
Conclusion:
1. While last year had its challenges, let us not overlook God's blessings. 2. Let us abstain from murmuring in 2021, and let us gain a new appreciation for David's words of faith and wisdom in Psalm 124.
